TapRoot Systems Inc. yesterday announced its WalkingHotSpot solution for wireless carriers.
Not yet released for consumers, TapRoot's patent-pending software transforms a WiFi enabled smartphone (like Windows Mobile or UIQ smartphones) into a hotspot providing access to 3G data networks. The solution is the first in a series of products allowing wireless subscribers to enhance their smartphones for internet connectivity. The WalkingHotSpot solution provides a platform to deliver new solutions to wireless subscribers around WiFi. The scalable solution allows users to securely retrieve E-Mails and browse the internet with no additional software or configuration required on the WiFi client devices.

• Enables 3G/WiFi smartphones to become mobile hotspots
• No additional client software required to connect with a wide variety of WiFi devices:
  • Laptops
  • Smartphones
  • PDA's
  • MP3 players
  • or other WiFi enabled devices
• Easy to install, simple to run
  • Over-the-air provisioning
  • Initial web-site visit to operational in less than 5 minutes
  • Single button execution
• Internet access anywhere there is mobile network coverage
• Client server architecture enforces security
• Connects via standard WiFi access
• Multiple client devices can connect to a single walkinghotspot
• Energy management features preserve battery life
• Service levels enable customization
• Currently runs on 75% of 3G/WiFi smartphones:
  • Symbian S60
  • Symbian UIQ
  • Microsoft Windows Mobile

The launch of WalkingHotSpot allows wireless subscribers to consolidate all their data connectivity needs into one source. In addition to the WalkingHotSpot handset client, TapRoot is launching its WHS Server, which provides carriers with the ability to manage and control subscriber accounts, authenticate WalkingHotSpot devices and clients, as well as collect subscriber usage information. This service allows carriers to offer a secure, controlled and scalable solution to their subscribers.

The WalkingHotSpot solution supports multiple devices simultaneously through secure connections. The application is specifically designed to be power-efficient, robust and end-user friendly. The solution is already available on WiFi enabled smartphones using Symbian S60 and Windows Mobile operating systems, with more operating systems support in development.

Unfortunately today the WHS server and the WalkingHotSpot handset client are commercially available for immediate implementation in carriers' networks only, a consumer version isn't released yet and it's not clear if it will be released for consumer download. Nevertheless, it's an interesting utility to make more out of your 3G device.

Anyway, if you use a Windows Mobile device, in the meantime you might want to check out WMWifiRouter which does the same but is available for free already.

Cheers ~ Arne

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